Plumbing discussions and local services.
raypodcaster
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RE: How much lint-catching is sensible at a washer standpipe?
I’d only use a catcher if its maker says it’s intended for a standpipe. A sink-style one might be easier to see, but I wouldn’t assume it will sit securely or handle a washer’s discharge; if the fit is uncertain, I’d rat...
RE: Hot Water Crisis: DIY Fix or Call the Pros?
George’s hypothetical is a useful example of when uncertainty might be a reason to stop, but it isn’t the firsthand repair-gone-sideways story I was asking about. If anyone has actually hit an unexpected snag, I’d be cur...
RE: Plastic Vs. Tile-Ready Shower Bases: Which One's Less Hassle?
Plastic bases are definitely less hassle up front, but that flexing drives me nuts too. I’ve had one that creaked every time you shifted your weight, even after setting it in a thick mortar bed. Tile’s more work and cost...
RE: Turning sunlight into hot showers: best kits or hacks?
I get the skepticism about the black hose coils, but honestly, I’ve had some luck with them even in shoulder seasons up here in Vermont. Not piping hot, but enough for a quick shower if you’re not picky. Heat tape’s grea...
RE: Finally ditched the black tank: my dry loo journey
I’ve tried the cardboard route too, and yeah, it’s a hassle to get it shredded fine enough. I actually gave up after a while because it just felt like too much work for not enough payoff, especially when sawdust is so mu...
RE: my shower's gone rogue and sprays everywhere but down
I’m with you on the vinegar - honestly, I’ve never bothered with the “cleaning” stuff and regular white vinegar has always worked for me. The rubber nozzles are a weird one, though. Sometimes I feel like I’m just making ...
RE: How do you usually tackle installing a new drain - DIY or call in a pro?
That’s the nightmare, right? I’ve tried to “just swap out” a drain on old galvanized before and ended up chasing leaks for hours. My wallet still remembers that plumber bill. I’m all for DIY when it’s newer PVC or someth...
RE: When your water heater goes rogue: quick fixes and hacks
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve tried to “DIY” a couple things just to save a buck, but messing with wiring is where I draw the line. The basics - reset button, leaks, pilot light - are usually as far as I’ll go. Sometimes it’...
RE: Why do faucet handles turn opposite ways?
I’ve wondered about this too, especially after moving into a place where the hot and cold handles both turned outward to turn on. It threw me off for weeks. From what I’ve read, it’s partly tradition and partly plumbing ...
RE: Burst pipe panic: what would you do?
Main shutoff is always my first move too - nothing like chasing water around the house to make you rethink your priorities. I’ve used SharkBites in a pinch, but I’m with you: they’re not cheap, and I never quite trust th...
RE: When your bathroom sink ends up off-center
Flex Pipes Under the Sink: Worth the Trade-Off? That’s true, but honestly, I’ve had mixed luck with flex pipes under sinks. I get the appeal - especially when you’re dealing with a vanity that’s not centered or when t...
RE: Keeping Pipes Safe and My Sanity Intact
I’m right there with you on the foam sleeves. I used the “deluxe” thicker ones last winter, but honestly, I think it was more about feeling like I did something than actual science. My crawlspace barely dipped below free...
RE: Finally won the battle against invading tree roots
I get what you mean about the roots just finding a way around whatever you put in their path. I tried the landscape fabric route too, and honestly, it felt like I was just giving the roots a puzzle to solve. They always ...
RE: What if your street flooded because drains were clogged?
I've had similar experiences with mesh guards - definitely helps with leaves, but pine needles are a whole different beast. A neighbor of mine tried the foam inserts, and while they seemed promising at first, he mentione...
RE: Handy shortcuts for finding plumbing info quick
I've never tried the cloth method myself, but I did something similar with paper towels once. Wrapped them around the joint dry, then checked back after a few hours to see if they were damp. Seemed easier to spot moistur...